volatile oil

American  

noun

1. a distilled oil, especially one obtained from plant tissue, as distinguished from glyceride oils by their volatility and failure to saponify.

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volatile oil British  

noun

1. another name for essential oil

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Etymology

Origin of volatile oil

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

volatile oil

Investors anticipate a Federal Reserve rate hike this year due to the combination of a resilient jobs market, volatile oil prices and stubborn inflation.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 6, 2026

The “markets will likely remain cautious as investors juggle Middle East geopolitical risks and volatile oil prices, which continue to drive inflation expectations,” UOB’s Global Economics & Markets Research team says in a note.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 25, 2026

Government figures estimate that offshore wind is cheaper than gas over the long term and is less vulnerable to volatile oil and gas prices.

From BBC ● Jun. 17, 2024

All airlines face volatile oil prices, and those in most emerging markets face a steep rise in the cost of dollars needed to pay for aircraft rentals and fuel.

From Reuters ● Jan. 16, 2023

When pressed with the nail they exude a volatile oil with which they are charged to the unusual proportion of about 18%.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 6, Slice 5 "Clervaux" to "Cockade" by Various